Overview. This is one of the most beautiful loops in Kentucky. We hiked this from the top to see if we could catch changing skies at the overlooks (we didn’t), but the loop has Blue Heron Overlook, Cracks in the Rocks, plenty of mining history, access to the river, Devil’s Jump, a couple beaches, and Devil’s Jump Overlook. If I’d have hiked this with LaFonda, no question we would’ve spent an hour soaking in the river.

Route Type | Loop
Total Distance | 7.54 miles
Elevation Gain | ~1,100 feet
Physical Demand | Easy to Moderate
Navigational Skill | Beginner to Intermediate

GPS Waypoints
Blue Heron Overlook Trailhead | 36.674552, -84.541556
Blue Heron Overlook | 36.671767, -84.543669
Crack in the Rocks | 36.670964, -84.544872
Horse Crossing | 36.667850, -84.545972
Devil’s Jump | 36.670494, -84.540150
Devil’s Jump Overlook | 36.674093, -84.537045
Big South Fork NRRA Area Map
Blue Heron Area Map
NOTE: GPS signal is terrible at Cracks in the Rocks and waypoints/tracks won’t be accurate

Parking. Expansive parking is available at Blue Heron Overlook with trailer/RV parking spots (not pull-throughs though) as well. Pit toilet and trash facilities are available here.

Trail Navigation. The loop is well marked and maintained with some connecting horse trails. Be sure to follow the signs to stay on trail and consult your map at intersections. If using a map app, be sure to download the map for offline use. Here are the simplest format directions:

• Begin at Blue Heron Overlook Trailhead and walk the paved path to the overlook

• Retrace and turn left at the marked junction with Blue Heron Loop

• Descend a good number of stairs and staircases until arriving at Cracks in the Rocks

• Spend some time taking in the scenes before climbing up and down the staircases to exit the cracks on the downhill side

• Continue on the trail leading away from the cliffline until reaching the wide trail/forest road approaching the mining community

• Turn left toward the bridge/tipple

• Continue past the bridge and parking area and fork right toward the river

• Follow the riverside trail and pop out onto the river as you like - be sure to stop at Devil’s Jump

• Continue along the trail that narrows into singletrack below the wider horse trail

• Ascend near an open section of forest and switchback uphill

• Stay left at the fork where a horse trail leads away from the Blue Heron - Laurel Branch is below on your right; take the singletrack up and away from the branch

• Reach near the top of the ridge and take the fork to Devil’s Jump Overlook when you reach it

• Retrace back to the main loop trail and turn left to walk the forest path back to the junction with Blue Heron Overlook Trail and turn right to return to the parking lot

HIKER NOTE - Bridge Out, Fording the Big South Fork. With the bridge out, access to the other side of the river requires fording the river. With low water levels during dry periods, it would be an easy walk across and a stiff climb up a horse trail that’s labeled as closed on the National Parks Service app. The crossing coordinates are above for your reference. Do NOT attempt to cross in high water - drowning is a popular way to die.

HIKER NOTE - Just the Highlights. You can skip the loop and hit the highlights along the river by parking down below at Blue Heron Mining Community and walking upriver to the beaches and Devil’s Jump. Then drive up to the two overlooks above that have short walks to nice platforms. Cracks in the Rocks is most easily accessed from below, but is more scenic coming in from above, so take your pick - or just do the loop;-)

CAUTION - Deadly Drops. Long falls from high places are the #1 non-health related cause of death for hikers in Kentucky. Keep your distance from the edges of cliffs to avoid a deadly fall. Young children should be kept close.

CAUTION - Poisonous Snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Should you encounter one, stop and slowly back away. Always give venomous snakes a wide berth. Know Before You Go => University of Kentucky Venomous Snake Guide

CAUTION - Black Bears. Ursus Americanus - a.k.a. the American black bear is growing in population throughout much of Kentucky. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips